Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Jake Waterman missed a potential match winning goal in the final minute as North Melbourne edged West Coast by one point at Optus Stadium on Saturday, securing a dramatic AFL victory after surviving a late Eagles comeback. The result mattered significantly for both clubs, with North Melbourne responding to last week's heavy defeat while West Coast was left heartbroken after Waterman's set shot struck the post with the game on the line.
The thrilling contest in front of 42,409 spectators came down to the final moments after the Eagles stormed back from a 21 point deficit early in the last quarter.
Waterman, one of West Coast's most important forwards, had the chance to become the hero when he marked about 25 metres directly in front of goal. With less than a minute remaining, he lined up for the decisive kick.
Instead, his shot drifted into the post, leaving the Eagles trailing by a single point.
North Melbourne then held firm through crucial contested marks from Tristan Xerri and Nick Larkey before the final siren sounded.
Waterman left devastated after final siren
The emotional impact of the miss was immediately visible as Waterman stood dejected following the match.
Players from both teams approached the Eagles spearhead to offer support after the heartbreaking finish.
North Melbourne forward Nick Larkey was among the first opposition players to console Waterman and praised the West Coast star after the game.
"We got away with one," Larkey said.
He described Waterman as one of the best key forwards in the competition and admitted it was difficult to watch a player miss such a crucial opportunity.
Larkey also highlighted his admiration for Waterman's game, noting that the Eagles forward has consistently delivered throughout the season despite the unfortunate ending to Saturday's contest.
North Melbourne responds after heavy loss
The victory was particularly important for North Melbourne following last week's 124 point defeat to Fremantle.
Veteran forward Jack Darling played a major role in the response, producing his best performance in several seasons.
Darling kicked four first half goals and provided a strong target inside forward 50. It marked his biggest goal tally since he booted six majors against Gold Coast in 2022.
His early influence helped the Kangaroos establish momentum after a competitive opening quarter.
Nick Larkey also returned to form with four goals, giving North Melbourne a powerful attacking combination.
Despite West Coast enjoying periods of dominance, the Kangaroos capitalised on their opportunities when it mattered most.
Eagles fight back through Shanahan and Waterman
West Coast appeared out of contention when North Melbourne built a 21 point advantage early in the final quarter.
However, young forward Jobe Shanahan sparked a remarkable comeback.
Shanahan had collected only two disposals by half time but transformed the contest after the main break. His strong aerial presence produced five contested marks and three goals.
One of his most memorable moments came with just over two minutes remaining when he converted a difficult checkside goal from the pocket.
Waterman also played a key role in the rally.
He finished with 3.3 and was influential throughout the game, although his final accuracy ultimately proved costly.
The Eagles repeatedly threatened to steal victory, but North Melbourne managed to withstand the pressure.
Harley Reid makes his mark
West Coast midfielder Harley Reid was influential from the opening quarter.
The young star collected 11 disposals and five clearances in the first term alone while also producing several key moments late in the quarter.
Reid kicked a goal and shortly afterward earned a free kick near goal after receiving high contact.
Although his snap at goal struck the post, the subsequent play led to Brady Hough receiving a free kick directly in front after being pulled down during a scuffle involving several players.
West Coast used those opportunities to establish an early advantage and looked capable of controlling the contest.
The Eagles extended their lead to 19 points early in the second quarter after Waterman kicked two quick goals.
Concussion concern clouds contest
The match was also overshadowed by an incident involving North Melbourne forward Paul Curtis and West Coast utility Hamish Davis.
Curtis tackled Davis with both arms pinned, resulting in the young Eagle hitting the ground heavily.
Davis appeared visibly affected when he stood up and required assistance as he left the field.
The 20 year old took no further part in the game due to concussion concerns.
The incident is expected to attract scrutiny as officials review the tackle.
Momentum swings throughout dramatic encounter
North Melbourne dominated territory early and recorded six marks inside 50 during the opening quarter.
However, inaccurate kicking limited the damage as the Kangaroos managed only 2.5.
West Coast took advantage of those missed opportunities and built a lead through the efforts of Reid and Waterman.
The contest then shifted dramatically before half time as Darling kicked three consecutive goals to help North Melbourne move ahead by one point at the main break.
The Kangaroos continued to build momentum after halftime and looked set for a comfortable victory before Shanahan inspired West Coast's late charge.
Ultimately, the game will be remembered for Waterman's final opportunity and the fine margins that decided the outcome.